Premier Says Crime A Burden To The Nation

Premier Says Crime A Burden To The Nation Pauline Ngunjiri As St. Kitts and Nevis marked the 32 nd anniversary of Independence on Sept. 19, Nevis Premier Hon Vance Amory despite the gains made over the years, the increasing level of criminal activity is burdening the proud country. The Premier spoke to issue during the annual National Parade held at the Elquemedo T. Willet Park, Charlestown on Saturday . This year’s Independence was celebrated under the theme “United in Building a Stronger Nation”. “One of the difficulties we are facing in St. Kitts and Nevis, is the increasing incidence of anti-social behavior resulting in serious criminal activity, which I want to re-emphasize, is causing an undue burden for us in government,” Hon. Amory said. The Premier called on citizens to come on board and help fight crime. “We have to be the keepers of the gate of our country. If something goes wrong, if somebody commits a crime, or is guilty of anti-social behavior, we should not be afraid to say something; we should not be afraid to do what we can because every time we refuse to take action, then things get worse and worse. ” Today as we celebrate, let us begin to take a fresh look, a new focus on who we are so that we can be the beneficiaries of that common purpose, that common goal which binds us together so that we can welcome investors and visitors,” he stated. Amory urged all to begin to look more toward the common good of the country rather than their individual agendas. The Premier said proper guidance from parents and teachers can empower youth to create a harmonious society. The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) is trying to do its part to elevate the young people of Nevis, with its most recent investment in youth and education, spending EC $3.2 million to refurbish all the public schools on the island. “Let us begin to build and ensure our country grows and remains safe and secure,” Premier Amory encouraged. The Premier congratulated seven persons who were awarded for their contribution to the development of various sectors in Nevis – David Joseph (Community Service), Bertin Mintos (Construction), Ralph Allen (Culture), Cecil Morgan and Joseph Liburd (Law Enforcement), Levi Daniel (Public Service) and Roosevelt Chapman (Sports). The Independence Day ceremony was witnessed by the Governor General’s Deputy, His Excellency Eustace John, the Nevis Resident Judge Hon. Lorraine Williams, Deputy Premier, Hon. Mark Brantley, other NIA ministers, senators, invited guests, civil servants and members of the public. The Premier and the Governor General’s Deputy inspected a Guard of Honor mounted by the St. Kitts and Nevis Royal Police, Nevis division. A passing out parade by representatives of uniformed bodies and students added pomp and splendor to the ceremony.